Lightning tipped to be behind Bundaberg factory explosion
Leaf Resources said a lightning strike could have been a factor in an explosion at its Apple Tree Creek chemical plant, near Bundaberg, over the weekend.
The Apple Tree Creek facility near Bundaberg
The company’s shares in the ASX have been halted from trade and the chemical plant has been closed while an investigation by Worksafe Queensland is undertaken.
One contractor suffered serious facial injuries and burns in the explosion and was transferred to Brisbane for medical treatment.
“Workplace health and safety officers are now on site and are investigating the cause of the accident,” Leaf said in a statement to the ASX this morning.
“The investigations will examine if a lightning strike at the plant at 1.30pm on Friday was a contributing factor to the explosion.
“The company’s immediate concern has been for the wellbeing of its employees and contractors and management has been in direct contact with the contractor’s family.
“The plant will not operate until all investigations are complete, damage is fully assessed and repairs are undertaken.’
Leaf said its shares would remain halted from trade while the investigations were carried out.
Leaf claims to be a leader in converting biomass, like pine trees, into sustainable products that replace petroleum-based chemicals and plastics.
